Cylindra Beet Seeds

Sowing: Plant Cylindra beet seeds directly outdoors 4 weeks before the last expected frost. Prior to planting, soak the heirloom beet seeds in water for 2 hours to soften them. Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Plant the seeds 2.5 centimeters deep and space them 2.5 centimeters apart in rows that are 30.5 -61 centimeters apart. Press down the soil above the seeds to ensure good soil contact and expect germination within 5-15 days. Incorporate compost or organic matter into the soil for optimal growth. For companion planting benefits, consider planting beets alongside bush beans, onions, or members of the cabbage family, but avoid planting them near pole beans.

Growing: Since each beet "seed" contains up to 8 actual seeds, thin the seedlings to 7.6 centimeters apart. The removed plants can be replanted as a second crop, but they will be about 2 weeks behind the original plants. Be careful not to damage the seedlings while weeding. Cylindra beets thrive in cool weather and can tolerate temperatures as low as -3.9°C. Light Needs: Full Sun Soil Temp: 15.6-23.9 Degrees C Planting Depth: 1.3 centimeters Germination: 5-10 Days Sow directly into deep, fertile soil one week before the last expected frost. Alternatively, start indoors or in a cold frame 5-6 weeks earlier, ensuring not to disturb the taproot during transplantation. Space the plants 5.1-7.6 centimeters apart and maintain evenly moist soil throughout the growing season.

Harvesting: Beets can be harvested any time after they reach a size of 2.54 centimeters in diameter, typically around two months after planting. For optimal taste and tenderness, avoid letting the beets grow larger than 7.62 centimeters in diameter. When harvesting, twist off the tops about 2.54 centimeters up the stem to prevent bleeding.

Seed Saving: Since beets are pollinated by the wind, ensure they are separated from other chard and beet varieties by at least 3.22 kilometers to maintain genetic purity. Beet plants need to endure the winter to produce seeds. In warmer regions, mulch the plants; in cooler areas, dig up the roots and store them in sand, keeping them from touching each other, in a cool and humid location until early spring when you can replant them. The plants will go to seed in spring; wait until the seed heads are fully mature and dry before harvesting. Once dry, the heirloom beet seeds will easily detach from the stems. Store Cylindra beet seeds in a cool, dry place for up to five years. Harvest the flower stems after the beet tops have turned brown, let them dry completely, then manually remove the seeds from the plant material. Label and store in a dry, dark place for up to 3 years.

Planting Methods: Direct Sowing, Indoor Seed Starting, Successive Planting, Container Gardening, Companion Planting
Blooming Season: Early Summer or Late Spring
Planting Season: Early Spring or Late Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Beta vulgaris/ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Sunlight Required/Height: Full Sun/ 20-30 cm
Can I Grow Beet Seeds Sprouts: Yes
Shelf Life After Test Date: The shelf life of Cylindra beet seeds after the test date varies based on storage conditions. Under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and dry—seeds can remain viable for several years beyond the test date. However, germination rates may gradually decline over time. To maximize viability, store seeds in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Regularly test germination rates through simple pre-planting checks to ensure seed vitality for successful cultivation.
Seed Type: Open Pollinated
Soil Type: Loam Soil